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January Tips of the Month: SkateboardsAccording to the CPSC more than
104,000 persons were treated in hospital emergency rooms for
skateboard related injuries. Sprains, fractures, contusions and
abrasions were the most common types of injuries. Deaths due to
collisions with cars and from falls also were reported. Most of
the emergency room reported injuries were to adolescents and
young adults.
Before riding, skateboarders should screen the
area where they will be riding by checking for holes,
bumps, rocks and any debris. Areas set aside especially for
skateboarding generally have smoother riding surfaces.
Skateboarding in the street can result in collisions with cars
causing serious injury and even death.
Before using your
skateboard check it for hazards, such as loose, broken, or
cracked parts; sharp edges on metal boards; slippery top
surface; and wheels with nicks and cracks. A qualified repair
technician should correct serious defects.
Protective Gear
Protective gear, such as helmets, wrists guards, elbow and
kneepads, are recommended because they can reduce the number and
severity of injuries.
Tips for using a
skateboard:
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Never ride in the street.
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Don't take chances: complicated tricks require careful
practice and a specially designed area.
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Only one person per skateboard.
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Never grab onto a car, bus, truck, motorcycle or bicycle.
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Learning how to fall helps reduce your chances of being
seriously injured.
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If you are losing your balance, crouch down on the
skateboard so that you will not have so far to fall. In a
fall, try to land on the fleshy parts of your body. If you
fall, try to roll rather than absorb the force with your
arms even though it may be difficult. During a fall, try to
relax your body rather than stiffen.
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